Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Oxymetazoline Ophthalmic Solution (OXYMETAZOLINE - OPHTHALMIC)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • inflammation of the eyes
  • eye

Brand Name(s): Upneeq

Generic Name: Oxymetazoline

Instructions

If you use contact lenses, remove the contacts before using the medicine. Wait 15 minutes after using the medicine before putting the contacts back on.

Keep the medicine at room temperature. Avoid heat and direct light.

Ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist to show you how to use this medicine correctly.

Wash your hands before and after handling this medicine.

Do not let the tip of the container touch your eye. Do not touch the tip with your hands or let it touch other surfaces. This can cause a serious eye infection.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all your medicines. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines.

If you are using another eye medicine, wait at least 15 minutes before using the other medicine.

If also using an eye ointment, use drops at least 15 minutes before the ointment.

Use this medicine at the same time each day.

Store in original bottle, tightly closed and upright.

Discard any remaining medicine.

Do not use any other eye medicine without your doctor's knowledge.

Cautions

For use only in the eyes. May be harmful if swallowed.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

This medicine may cause blurry vision.

Wait several minutes for your vision to clear before driving, or operating machinery.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • blurry vision
  • burning or stinging
  • dry eyes
  • irritation of the eyes
  • watering of the eyes

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • drooping eyelids
  • redness of eyes
  • itching and swelling of eyelids
  • eye pain or swelling
  • blurring or changes of vision

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.